i. The Mahabharata incorporates stories, customs, and beliefs from various regions of the Indian subcontinent, reflecting the multicultural aspects of ancient Indian society where different communities coexisted and interacted.
ii. Variations in social practices, such as marriage and rituals, as depicted in the Mahabharata, highlight the dynamic nature of Indian society like polyandry, polygamy, exogamy, endogamy, etc.
iii. The epic illustrates the ongoing exchange between diverse communities, including Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras, as well as interactions with tribal groups and other cultures. Ex – Hidimba, mlechchas, etc
iv. These interactions enriched Indian society through the exchange of ideas and cultural practices.
v. The Mahabharata portrays conflicts and consensus among different social groups and ideologies.
vi. Communities adapted the epic to their cultural contexts, leading to diverse versions and interpretations. Like V S Suthankar’s preparation of critical edition.